Pilates is a method of physical training and rehabilitation developed by the husband and wife team of Joseph and Clara Pilates. To become a Pilates instructor, you must earn your Pilates trainer certification. A mat Pilates certification course, commonly called a basic course, teaches you to lead Pilates classes on the mat. A comprehensive course teaches you how to lead classes on the mat and specialized Pilates equipment. A Pilates instructor commonly gives private and group lessons by the hour at a Pilates studio or in a private location.
Distance Learning Mat Pilates
You can earn your mat Pilates trainer certification via distance learning. The curriculum of one provider requires 40 hours of practical and theoretical self-study. Topics covered in level one include the principles of Pilates, mat Pilates exercises for the whole body and how to teach the class. The educational material for this distance learning course consists of one training manual, one DVD and two CDs. No experience is required.
Comprehensive Course
When you sign up for an in-person comprehensive Pilates trainer certification program, you will learn how to teach both mat classes and classes on Pilates equipment like the Reformer and Cadillac. One reputable certification program requires 500 hours of study. You would attend lectures and participate in hands-on activities. In addition to the study hours, this particular course requires up to 100 observation hours and up to 200 hours of apprentice teaching. This course prefers that you have teaching experience, work experience in any field of health and a general knowledge of Pilates.
Dance Specialization
Skilled dancers and dance students can take a Pilates trainer certification program with a dance specialization. This advanced course builds on the high level of physical strength, muscular control and flexibility you have already gained through dancing and teaches you how to address the physical needs of dancers. This comprehensive course gives you the skills to formulate personalized classes on Pilates equipment and on the mat. The instructors for this course are professional dancers and Pilates instructors. Dance and teaching experience as well as a general knowledge of Pilates principals is required.
National Certification
Once you complete your Pilates trainer certification and earn a certificate from your school, you may want to get your national certification. To do this, you must apply to the Pilates Method Alliance and pass a standardized exam to receive your national certification. This extra credential is not essential to starting your career as a Pilates trainer. To apply you must have a combination of at least 450 hours of self-study, apprenticeship and assistant teaching.
References
- GFFI-Fitness Academy: Pilates Trainer Course / Certification
- Basi Pilates: Comprehensive Teacher Training Course
- Basi Pilates: Comprehensive Teacher Training Course with Dance Specialization
- Pilates Method Alliance: Get PMA Certified!
- PIlates Method Alliance: An Exercise in Balance: The Pilates Phenomenon
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